Passengers on a United flight from San Francisco to Boston experienced a nerve-wracking mid-air emergency when they noticed the wing of their plane “coming apart.” The unsettling incident led to an emergency landing in Denver, where the 165 passengers on board were relieved to disembark and eventually board a new plane bound for Boston.
Kevin Clarke, a passenger on the flight, captured the moment of the emergency landing on video and expressed gratitude for their safe return to ground. After the plane landed in Denver, an aircraft maintenance crew rushed over to inspect the damage to the wing, while passengers waited anxiously for updates and the next steps.
Clarke recalled hearing a loud buzzing noise shortly after takeoff, followed by the pilot’s decision to return to the airport. His observation of bird strike forms before departure added an unsettling layer to the experience. The pilot’s swift action and communication with the ground crew helped to ease the panic initially felt by passengers.
United Flight 354 ultimately made it to Boston, albeit several hours behind schedule. In response to inquiries, United reported that the diversion was necessary to address an issue with the wing’s slat. Despite the harrowing experience, Clarke commended the airline for their handling of the situation.
The incident serves as a reminder of the unexpected challenges that can arise during air travel, but, in this case, the quick response and expertise of the flight crew and ground personnel ensured a safe outcome for all passengers.